How to reach Venice
Venice is well connected by air, with direct flights from Dublin and other Irish airports landing at Venice Marco Polo Airport, the main international hub located about 13km from the city. The flight time from Ireland is around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Transfer to the city centre: The Alilaguna water bus is a scenic and relaxing way to reach central Venice, taking around 60–70 minutes to St. Mark’s Square and costing approximately €15. The express land bus to Piazzale Roma is quicker at 20 minutes and costs about €8. Taxis are available, and private water taxis offer a direct, premium option for around €100, depending on the route.
Price of transport options: For getting around once in Venice, public water buses (vaporettos) are the most convenient. A single ticket costs around €7.50, while multi-day passes are available for better value if you're planning to explore more. Private water taxis are expensive but ideal for door-to-door service, especially if travelling with luggage.
Best time to visit Venice
Spring (March to May) brings comfortable temperatures from 9°C to 21°C and blooming gardens, making it a lovely time for sightseeing with smaller crowds.
Summer (June to August) is peak season, with warm temperatures reaching up to 28°C. It’s the busiest time of year with festivals, long daylight hours and lively atmosphere, but also higher prices and queues at top attractions.
Autumn (September to November) offers fewer tourists, cooler temperatures from 11°C to 24°C and the chance to see Venice’s canals cloaked in early morning mist — ideal for photographers.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with temperatures between 1°C and 11°C. While you’ll need to bundle up, it’s a magical time to explore the city without the crowds — and perfect for those interested in the Venice Carnival.
Practical information for Venice holidays
Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. A few basic Italian phrases will go a long way.
Local habits and customs: Politeness is appreciated, so greetings like "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera" are the norm. Modest dress is required when visiting churches.
Tips: A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
Security: Venice is safe for tourists, but do keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas such as vaporetto stops and markets.
Health: Tap water is safe to drink. No vaccinations are required for travel from Ireland. Travel insurance is recommended for peace of mind.
Papers and visa: Irish citizens can travel to Italy freely with a valid passport. No visa is required as both countries are EU members, and Irish travellers can stay as long as they like.
Currency: The Euro (€) is used. ATMs are easy to find, and credit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels.
Getting around: Venice is best explored on foot or by vaporetto. Cars are not allowed beyond Piazzale Roma, so plan to walk or use water transport throughout your stay.
Electricity and plug types: Italy uses 230V electricity with plug types F and L. Irish travellers will need a standard European adapter.